Sound module
A sound module , also known as an expander , is an external electronic sound generator without a playable interface, such as a keyboard . In order to play it, it is therefore necessary to control it with a MIDI capable device, either with a controller - such as a master keyboard - or a sequencer .
Many synthesizers , hardware samplers , e-drums or instrument emulators are (also) available as sound modules, which v. a. is an advantage for studio musicians because they already have a MIDI keyboard and can save money and space with the sound module version.
Most sound modules have a standardized width and screw thread so that they can be stacked in a rack , a special stand for musical devices. Occasionally there are also sound modules that can be integrated into conventional personal computers , such as B. the synthesizer Waldorf Microwave PC , which is inserted into a slot for floppy or CD drives. Some models are also optimized for live use and therefore offer function - specific regulators and control elements , such as the Hammond organ emulators VK-8M from Roland and Ferrofish ( B4000 + ), both of which have the typical drawbars .
The sound modules were most widespread in the first half of the 1990s . After that, production shifted more and more to the computer itself ( native processing ). In many cases, due to the steadily increasing computing power, hardware sound modules are now being released as software versions that offer almost the same sound generation.
In some cases, so-called hybrid systems are also coming onto the market, which allow integration into the computer setup and can also be used separately - without a computer - on stage, for example. An example of a hybrid system is the Roland Fantom series, which can be connected to the computer via a USB port and thus also enables total recall .
literature
- Helmut Hofmüller: Handbook of home recording. The professional way from recording to master CD. Elektor-Verlag, Aachen 1998, ISBN 3-89576-044-7 .
- Michael Dickreiter, Volker Dittel, Wolfgang Hoeg, Martin Wöhr (eds.), "Handbuch der Tonstudiotechnik", 8th, revised and expanded edition, 2 volumes, publisher: Walter de Gruyter, Berlin / Boston, 2014, ISBN 978-3- 11-028978-7 or e- ISBN 978-3-11-031650-6
Web links
Individual evidence
- ↑ Test report Ferrofish B4000 + ( memento of the original from October 21, 2016 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. on music magazine Keyboards 2011/6
